Industry News

Industry News02.06.2024

Integration of agriculture with solar energy in South Kazakhstan

 Syrymbet Idrissov, Director of Soventus Qazaqstan

Agrivoltaics, also known as photovoltaic energy, is the practice of combining agriculture with solar energy production by installing solar panels above or next to crops. The choice of crops for agrivoltaics depends on several factors, including climate, soil type, exposure to sunlight, and the economic viability of crops. Here are some crops that are considered well suited for agrivoltaic systems:

BERRY CROPS: Berry crops such as strawberries, raspberries and blueberries are often grown in areas with strong sunlight, which makes them good candidates for agrivoltaic systems. In addition, they tend to be low- growing and can be easily harvested.

LEAFY GREENS. Leafy greens such as lettuce and spinach can be grown in shaded areas under solar panels, where reduced sunlight can help prevent shoots from plants and prolong the growing season.

SPECIAL CROPS: Special crops such as herbs and medicinal plants can be grown in shaded areas under solar panels. These crops usually require less sunlight than traditional crops and can be more profitable per square meter.

LOW-GROWING CROPS: Low-growing crops such as peas and beans can be grown in shaded areas under solar panels. These crops often grow well at lower temperatures and can be planted early in the season.

Cultures with high economic value. Finally, crops with high economic value, such as vineyards and orchards, can also be grown in agrivoltaic systems. Although these crops usually require more space and sunlight than other crops,the economic benefits may outweigh the additional costs of solar panels.

The best crops for agrivoltaic systems are those that are well suited to the local climate, soil type and sunlight exposure. In addition, crops with high economic value and those that can grow in shaded areas are often good candidates for agrivoltaic systems.

In Turkestan region, one of the first in the republic, an agro-photovoltaic project is being implemented on an area of more than one hectare, where more than 200 kWp solar modules of HBCtechnologyfrom Longi and low-power inverters from SolaXPower will be installed.

The integrator of this photovoltaic system is the leader in the general contract of roof and ground stations in the commercial sector, Soventus Energy, which is based in Shymkent and Tashkent. The company has embarked on the implementation of agro- photovoltaic projects in the Central Asian region and has the necessary technologies for their successful implementation.

Cabbage with high yield will be grown on this site. Despite the fact that this site has the required water supply, solar panels will help reduce evaporation, and will also help preserve the dark green color of cabbage, which is more in demand among buyers.

The expected annual generation of the photovoltaic plant is 220,000 kWh of environmentally friendly energy. Taking into account the current legislation and the ability to sell excess electricity up to 100 kW, and in August 2024 there will be 200 kW at maximum capacity, this project with a tariff of more than 40 tenge has a tremendous economic effect and payback in three years, and the remaining 27 years the station will be profitable.

This system is a win-win and cost-effective for the implementation of PVS projects in agriculture. For detailed calculations, please contact us by phone +7 702 888 3771 or by email info@soventus- energy.com.

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